Color Theory

Learning more about color theory can help you create the perfect look and mood for your garden. Color theory relies on the relationships between the various colors on the color wheel.

Combining warm colors like reds, oranges, and yellows will evoke a feeling of energy, while cool colors like blues, greens, and purples can create a sense of calm.

When choosing plants, remember that foliage can add just as much color as flowers.

Contrasting colors that are opposite each other on the color wheel, like purple and yellow, can result in bold combinations. Similar colors that are next to each other, like blue and purple, offer a subtle but sophisticated look.

Keep in mind that there's no right or wrong when using color theory, as long as you're happy with the results.

UF/IFAS Publications

• Color in the Landscape: Finding Inspiration for a Color Theme

Also on Gardening in a Minute

• One-color Gardens
• Using Color in the Landscape
• White Gardens

Other Sites

• Color Theory in the Garden--New York Botanical Garden
• Container Gardening: Color Theory--Texas AgriLife Extension
• Container Gardening: Flower Color Wheel--Texas AgriLife Extension
• How to Be a Gardener's Planting Styles: Color--British Broadcasting Service
• Use a Color Wheel for Selecting Plant Colors--Home and Garden Television
• Using Color in Flower Gardens--Cornell (NY) Cooperative Extension